A guide to the Driving Test
Introduction
The driving test is an important step in gaining your driver licence. When
you pass you will be issued with your provisional licence (P1) and will no
longer need to keep a log book or have a supervising driver in the car with
you. You will be free to continue learning and gaining valuable experience
through driving on your own.
This booklet is a general guide about what is in the driving
test. For more specialised information on the test, the Driving
Test (Class C) Testing Officers Manual is available from Roads and
Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) website rms.nsw.gov.au.
This booklet is not a book of road rules. For information
on road rules refer to the Road Users’ Handbook or the
Road Rules 2008, they are also available for free from Roads
and Maritime website at rms.nsw.gov.au or the handbook can
be purchased for a fee at a registry or a Service NSW centre
in your area, the handbook can also ordered by calling the
Contact Centre on 13 22 13.
A guide to the Driving Test
1
Contents
1.
2.
3.
THE DRIVING TEST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The way the test works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
BEFORE YOU START . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Bribing people is against the law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Booking a test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A completed logbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taking the test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Your car must be roadworthy and ready to drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why a test can be cancelled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
4
4
5
5
5
LOW RISK DRIVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Observation
Scanning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Checking blind spots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Speed management
Maintain space to the front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Maintain space when stopped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Reduce speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Road positioning
Buffering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Turns at intersections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Manoeuvres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Decision making
Affecting the crash avoidance space of others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Situations with limited vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Responding to hazards
Hazard and response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.
5.
6.
2
VEHICLE CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Operating the controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Driving posture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
TEST RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Why you might fail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Immediate fail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test termination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What happens after the test? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test score sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
32
33
35
36
TIPS FOR NEW PROVISIONAL DRIVERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Night driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Passenger influences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving distractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Licence restrictions for P1 licences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Licence restrictions for P2 licences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A guide to the Driving Test
38
38
38
39
40
1
The driving test
This guide explains what you need to do before taking a test,
what you will be tested on, and what happens afterwards.
THE WAY THE TEST WORKS
The driving test follows a set course comprising 25 zones. During the
test a testing officer will be in the car with you directing you where to
drive, and recording your performance on a score sheet. Your score will
be based on your driving performance in a range of situations and your
ability to demonstrate low risk behaviours. You are assessed against five key
performance areas: speed management (S); road positioning (P); decision
making (D); responding to hazards (H) and vehicle control (C).
1
2
3
Some driving behaviour such as breaking a road rule or following other
vehicles too closely is considered to be ‘high risk’. If you behave this way
during the test your actions will be recorded as FAIL items and you will not
pass, regardless of your score.
A detailed explanation of scoring codes is located on the back of the driving
test score sheet.
See Section 5 of this guide for a complete list of fail items. To pass the
driving test you must achieve a score of 90 per cent with no fail items.
A
In all the diagrams in this handbook
you are always the blue car, marked A.
A guide to the Driving Test
3
2
Before you start
BRIBING PEOPLE IS AGAINST THE LAW
It is illegal to offer, request or accept gifts, rewards, money or other favours
in order to get a licence without passing the required tests. Penalties are
severe and include fines and imprisonment. All cases of corruption will be
investigated and strong action will be taken against all those involved.
The only licence fees and charges you have to pay are set by Roads and
Maritime. Do not pay any more or offer to pay more to get your licence.
If you know or believe that someone has got or is about to get a NSW
licence by offering or responding to a request for a bribe – or if you
suspect or know of any other corruption involving a Roads and Maritime
employee – telephone Roads and Maritime on 1800 043 642 (free call) or the
Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on (02) 8281 5999.
To avoid misunderstanding make sure all money and
valuables in your vehicle are locked away or out of sight.
BOOKING A TEST
When you are ready to take the driving test, you need to make a booking by either:
• GoingonlinetoRoadsandMaritimeOnlineServicesatrms.nsw.gov.com.au
• CallingRoadsandMaritimeon132213.
• Orinpersonataregistry,agencyoraServiceNSWcentreinyourarea.
Bookings made by phone or online can be paid for by credit card only.
Bookings made at registry, agency or a Service NSW centre can be paid by
eftpos, cash, cheque or credit card.
Should you wish to change or cancel your booking, you may do so. This
must be done at least 24 hours prior to the test date or your fee will not be
refunded.
A COMPLETED LOGBOOK
Before you can take a driving test you must have:
• Therequiredamountof drivingexperiencerecorded
in your Learner Driver Log Book.
• ‘TheDeclarationof Completion’signedbyyoursupervising
driver in your Learner Driver Log Book.
4
A guide to the Driving Test
2
TAKING THE TEST
When you go to the testing centre for the driving test, you must have a person
with you who has a full driver licence. If you fail the test you cannot drive away
on your own and will need a licensed driver to be with you.
Plan to arrive at the testing centre in good time for your appointment. Give
your Learner Driver Log Book and booking confirmation slip to the person at
the counter. You will be referred to a testing officer.
The testing officer will ask you to sign the score sheet. Remember to ask any
questions before you start. The testing officer cannot tell you how to drive
or coach you during the test as it is an assessment of your ability to drive on
your own.
A monitoring officer may sit in on your test. The monitoring
officer’s job is to watch the testing officer and make sure that
the test is conducted properly. Nobody other than the testing
officer and monitoring officer is allowed to be in the vehicle
with you during the test.
Try to relax. You will not be expected to drive as skilfully as an experienced
driver. Remember, you can try again if you fail. However, you must wait a
minimum of seven days before you may reattempt the Driving Test.
After the test, the testing officer will review your performance if you wish.
Testing officers will provide general comments rather than discuss specific
situations or events.
If you fail you will receive a driving test record that shows the areas where
you need to improve.
YOUR CAR MUST BE SUITABLE FOR SAFE USE AND READY
TO DRIVE
Before the test starts the testing officer will check to make sure that your car
is suitable for safe use. See the checklist in Section 5 Test results.
WHY A TEST CAN BE CANCELLED
If there is any suspicion that you have recently taken alcohol or another
drug, the test will be cancelled and there will be no refund of the test
booking fee. If you offer money, some other bribe, or try to influence the
testing officer, the test will be stopped and you may be taken to a police
station and charged with offering a bribe.
A guide to the Driving Test
5
3
Low risk driving
Driving is never risk free, but you should aim to drive ‘low risk’.
You will be assessed on your low risk driving skills in speed
management, road positioning and decision making. The test also
assesses your ability to perceive and respond to hazards.
Observation
Observation is an essential skill for a low risk driver. The testing officer will
be assessing your observation techniques throughout the test. You will fail if
your observation is poor.
SCANNING
Scanning is keeping your eyes moving, checking in one area for no more
than a couple of seconds and then moving your eyes to another area.
Low risk drivers constantly scan traffic conditions.
When driving around corners turn your head and look through the corner
scanning the road ahead of your vehicle.
Slow down if vision of the road ahead is limited.
You will be expected to make regular checks in your rear vision mirror so
you know what is happening behind you. You must check your rear vision
mirror before you slow down or change direction.
When scanning look:
• Inthedistance.
• Attheroadsurface.
• Totheleftandright.
• Inyourmirrors.
• Attheinstrumentsandgauges.
Before proceeding through traffic lights, you must turn your head and
check to ensure there are no vehicles that may be ‘running’ the red light, or
pedestrians crossing against the ‘don’t walk’ sign. You must also turn your
head and check to ensure it is safe before proceeding across a railway level
crossing.
6
A guide to the Driving Test
3
CHECKING BLIND SPOTS
A car, motorcycle or bicycle in an adjacent lane can easily be positioned
beyond the area visible in the mirrors. Checking your blind spots is an
essential observation skill as many crashes occur because drivers do not
turn their head and look over their shoulder before steering. Frequently not
performing observation checks will result in a fail.
A
Check blind spots before changing your road position.
A
Do not drive in the blind spot of other vehicles.
A
All vehicles have a large blind spot behind them. Because of this blind spot, extra
care must be taken when reversing as small children can be out of view.
A guide to the Driving Test
7
3
You must turn your head and check your blind spots before:
• Changinglanes.
• Leavingorreturningtothekerb.
• Mergingordiverging.
• Reversing.
• Turningleft–lookingforpedestrians,bicyclesandmotorcyclesthat
could be beside you in your blind spot.
• Turningright–lookingforvehiclesthatmaybeovertakingyou.
• Joiningthetrafficstream.
• Leavingtheinsidelaneof amultilaneroundabout.
When reversing you must turn your head and look over your shoulder to
check through the rear window for vehicles and pedestrians that may not be
visible in your mirror. All vehicles have blind spots behind.
A
Before turning left you must check for bicycles and other vehicles that could be in
your blind spots.
A
Before turning into a street or driveway you must have a head check for vehicles that
may be overtaking you.
Observation errors are recorded on the Driving Test score sheet as a
circle around ‘D’ (decision) and an ‘H’ in the notes column.
8
A guide to the Driving Test
3
Speed management
You must drive at a safe and legal speed, managing your speed to suit traffic,
weather and road conditions.
MAINTAIN SPACE TO THE FRONT
You must adjust your speed to maintain crash avoidance space to the front
of your car.
The minimum safe distance needed in front is three seconds. This must be
increased in poor conditions, or when you are being followed too closely by
another vehicle.
When you change lanes or if another vehicle moves into your three-second
gap, you will be expected to create a new gap by gradually dropping back.
To calculate a three-second crash avoidance space when following another
vehicle use this basic technique: as the rear of the vehicle in front of you
passes a stationary object at the side of the road such as a power pole, tree
or sign, start a three-second count ‘one thousand and one, one thousand and
two, one thousand and three’.
A
You must stay at least 3 secs behind the vehicle ahead.
A
You must increase this distance in poor conditions (rain etc).
A guide to the Driving Test
9
3
If your car passes the object you picked before you finish the three-second
count, you are following too closely. Your crash avoidance space is not large
enough. Slow down, and repeat the count again until the three-second crash
avoidance space is achieved.
MAINTAIN SPACE WHEN STOPPED
When you are stopped in traffic you must keep one to two car lengths from
the vehicle in front to reduce the risk of colliding with it if you are hit from
behind. You may move forward to within one metre once other vehicles are
stopped behind you and the risk of being hit from behind is reduced.
A
Leave one to two car lengths in front when stopped.
When you come to a stop sign you must
stop completely before reaching the stop line,
and as close as possible to the line.
10
A guide to the Driving Test
3
REDUCE SPEED
You must slow down if you do not have a clear view of the road ahead.
Situations where your vision may be reduced include: blind corners; blocked
intersections; crests and poor weather conditions.
Slow down if you cannot see five seconds ahead.
To calculate five-second vision in a curve, pick a fixed point in the
oncoming lane that has just come into view and start a count ‘one
thousand and one, one thousand and two... one thousand and five’. If
you reach the point before five seconds you are driving too fast for the
available vision.
A
Slow down if you cannot see 5 secs ahead.
You must also slow down in situations where
space to the side of your vehicle is limited.
For traffic calming devices, such as speed humps or chicanes, slow down
enough to ensure there is no undue jolt or sideways roll of your vehicle.
A guide to the Driving Test
11
3
Road positioning
During the test you will be expected to maintain a safe, legal position on
the road. This includes during manoeuvres such as a three-point turn and
reverse parking.
BUFFERING
Buffering is keeping as much space to the sides of your vehicle as practical
in any situation. You should have at least one metre from other vehicles and
hazards.
Where you are not able to keep space from other vehicles and hazards you
must slow down.
You are also expected to change your position on the road to create space
from hazards. On crests and curves, slow down and move away from
oncoming traffic. When possible, you should be at least one metre from the
centreline on blind crests and curves.
In multi-laned traffic, avoid driving in the blind spot of other drivers and in
the high risk area beside other vehicles.
If you unnecessarily drive on the wrong side of the road, or unnecessarily
cross any edge lines or lane markings, you will fail.
A
You must allow space for parked cars to open doors.
A
You must allow clearance from oncoming traffic.
12
A guide to the Driving Test
3
A
Avoid driving in the high risk area beside other vehicles.
To reduce the risk of head-on crashes on multi-lane roads,
only drive in the right lane when overtaking or planning
to turn right.
TURNS AT INTERSECTIONS
Your position in making turns is important to ensure a smooth and safe flow
of traffic.
When turning left on unmarked roads you must approach as far left as
practical. When turning left on laned roads, you must approach in the left
lane, or any marked left turn lane.
A
Approach left turns as far left as you can.
As you finish a left turn, exit into the lane or part of the road that is best for
the traffic conditions. Your choice will depend on where you are going next,
whether cars are parked in the left lane, or whether outside lanes must be left
clear for overtaking.
A guide to the Driving Test
13
3
However, when there are multiple turning lanes, you must finish in a
permissible lane.
You will fail if you exit in an incorrect lane.
When there are multiple turning lanes, you must finish in a permissible lane.
You can turn into either lane, depending on traffic.
You must keep your steering straight while waiting to turn
right, to protect you from being pushed into the oncoming
traffic if hit from behind.
14
A guide to the Driving Test
3
When turning right on unmarked roads you must keep to the left of, but
as close as practical to the centre of the road. When turning right on laned
roads you must approach in the right lane or any marked right turn lanes.
A
In marked lanes stay in the same lane.
In marked lanes you must stay in the same lane as you go from one road to
another.
B
A
Turning vehicles pass in front of each other.
When turning right, steer to the right of an imaginary centre of the
intersection. This allows vehicles opposite you to also turn right. As you exit,
you must keep to the left of the centre of the road.
When turning right into a one-way street, approach and exit as close as
possible to the right side of the road.
A guide to the Driving Test
15
3
A
A
Indicate left when leaving the roundabout.
On multi-laned roundabouts position your vehicle in accordance with the
road markings for the direction you intend to travel. You must exit in a
permissible lane.
Approaching a roundabout: Vehicles entering a roundabout must give way
to any vehicle already in the roundabout.
Exiting a roundabout: If practical, you must always signal left when exiting
a roundabout
You must check your blind spot before crossing lanes
within a roundabout when exiting.
16
A guide to the Driving Test
3
MANOEUVRES
On the driving test you will be asked to do a number of manoeuvres that
will be selected from the following:
• Akerbsidestop.
• Ahillstart.
• Athree-pointturn.
• Parking,reverseparallel,90degreeor45degree,
front or rear to kerb (type depending on local availability).
During the manoeuvres you will be assessed on your ability to position your
vehicle legally, safely and accurately:
You must:
• Parkcloseandasnearaspracticaltothekerb.
(The test requires you to be less than 500 millimetres from the kerb.)
A
The vehicle should be parallel and closer than 500mm to the kerb.
The wheels must not touch the kerb.
A
• Stayatleastonemetreawayfromothervehicles.
(The test requires you to be no more than two metres
from other vehicles when you park.)
You must make sure the vehicle is at least 1m from other vehicles.
A guide to the Driving Test
17
3
A
• Reverseonlyasfarasyouneed(if youreversemorethansevenmetres
back from the rear of the vehicle you are parking behind,
you will fail).
• Wherepossible,finishascloseaspracticaltotheanglerequiredforthat
parking area and within any marked lines.
Park at required angle and within any marked lines.
• Useeffectivesteering.(Thetestallowsamaximumof fourdirection
changes for all parking manoeuvres.)
A
Park using a maximum of 4 direction changes.
• Duringthethree-pointturnyoumustcheckleftandrightfortraffic
before each movement.
A
Turn around using a maximum of 5 direction changes. If it is possible to complete
the manoeuvre in three changes of direction you will be expected to achieve this.
18
A guide to the Driving Test
3
Mounting the kerb at anytime during the test
will result in a fail.
OBSERVATION CHECKS DURING MANOEUVRES
During manoeuvres you must check for other vehicles, pedestrians and
possible hazards.
You must turn your head and check your blind spot before you:
• Movetothekerbtocommencethemanoeuvre.
• Leavethekerbtorejointhetraffic.
• Steer,if duringreversingthefrontof yourvehiclewill
swing into the lane.
A
You must check your blind spot before the front of your vehicle swings into the lane
beside you.
While reversing you must check in the direction of travel. This includes
checking the mirrors and through the rear and side windows.
You may use reversing cameras and sensors to aid
reversing. However, you must also check your mirrors
and the area around your vehicle.
If your vehicle has a park assist device, this must
be switched off for the reversing manoeuvres..
A guide to the Driving Test
19
3
Decision making
A critical decision must be made whenever you enter traffic, change lanes,
cross or turn at an intersection.
AFFECTING THE CRASH AVOIDANCE SPACE OF OTHERS
The testing officer will be checking that you go only when there is a safe
gap in the traffic and that you are not affecting the crash avoidance space of
other drivers.
A
Choose a safe gap so other vehicles are not forced to change speed.
A safe gap ensures that other vehicles do not need to change their speed
or position. When turning across traffic make sure your vehicle is clear
of the intersection by at least three seconds before the approaching
vehicles arrive. When joining a traffic stream select a gap that allows
you to reach the traffic speed before the approaching vehicles are within
three seconds of your car.
You must signal for at least five seconds
before leaving the kerb or a parked position.
During the test you will be expected to demonstrate smooth, flowing
decision making. If you reject safe gaps or unduly stop at intersections
when it is clearly safe to proceed, you may fail.
20
A guide to the Driving Test
3
A
Be clear of the intersection for 3 secs before other vehicles arrive.
When approaching traffic lights that are green, check your mirrors and be
prepared to stop.
You must stop at a yellow light, unless sudden braking
might cause a crash.
SITUATIONS WITH LIMITED VISION
At some intersections your vision may be affected by other vehicles,
trees or buildings. In these situations you must demonstrate caution
when proceeding. If you proceed into an intersection without due care,
you may fail.
After stopping correctly at a ‘stop line’ you may move forward into an
intersection to improve your vision, provided you do so safely and do
not affect other vehicles or pedestrians.
A guide to the Driving Test
21
3
Responding to hazards
Your hazard perception skills are essential to low risk driving. During the
test you will be assessed on your ability to recognise hazards and make an
appropriate response.
HAzARD AND RESPONSE
During your test you must respond appropriately to hazards.
As you scan the traffic environment you should be asking yourself whether
the things you see could possibly enter your crash avoidance space.
If the answer is yes and something could block your path, your response
should be to protect your crash avoidance space by:
• ‘Settingup’orcoveringthebrakes.
• Easingoff theaccelerator.
• Reducingspeed.
• Creatinga‘buffer’fromthehazardbychangingyourpositiononthe
road or changing lanes.
Your ability to respond means that you are better able to deal with any
dangerous situation that might occur.
A
Respond when something can enter your crash avoidance space.
22
A guide to the Driving Test
3
A
Respond before reaching the hazard.
A
A vehicle waiting to turn in front of your path.
A guide to the Driving Test
23
3
A
A vehicle waiting to pull out from the left side.
A
A vehicle waiting to pull out from the right side.
24
A guide to the Driving Test
3
A
Stopped traffic obscuring vision at an intersection.
A guide to the Driving Test
25
4
Vehicle control
Your ability to control the vehicle is assessed by the way you
handle the tasks involved.
OPERATING THE CONTROLS
Some of the driving tasks that the testing officer will observe and record are
listed here:
• Adjustdriver’sseatpostureandsteeringcolumn
(if adjustable) to ensure you have good control of the vehicle.
• Operateacceleratorsmoothlywhenacceleratinganddecelerating.
• Operatebrakessmoothlyandeffectively.
• Coordinateclutchandgearlevertomakesmoothgearchanges.
• Selectappropriategearforthesituationincludingwhen
coming to a stop and parking the car.
• Avoidover-revvingontakeoff andgearchanges.
• Driver’sseatbeltiscorrectlyfastened,fittedandadjusted
(low, flat and firm).
• Applyabrakewhenstartingthevehicle.
• Preventrollingbackwhenstartingonhills.
• Useparkbrakecorrectlywhenpreparingtosecurethevehicle
and ensure it is fully released when driving.
• Steerwithbothhandsonthesteeringwheel(exceptwhen
using another control), using either ‘hand-over-hand’ or ‘pull-push’
method with hands on the outside of the steering wheel.
• Useothercontrolssuchasindicators,windscreenwipers
and demisters.
You must be confident in your use of all controls and be able to operate
them without being distracted.
You should apply the eco driving techniques that are outlined in the
Road Users’ Handbook. Any harsh accelerating or braking will effect
your score.
26
A guide to the Driving Test
4
DRIVING POSTURE
The steering wheel should
be adjusted low, facing the
driver’s chest rather than
the face.
Adjust the head restraint
for your height. See owner’s
manual.
Keep your arms bent;
thumbs should be on the
rim of the steering wheel.
Keep your knees slightly
bent.
Have the seat fairly upright
to fully support your back
and shoulders.
Sit deep in the seat.
Brace your body using
your left foot.
A guide to the Driving Test
27
5
Test results
WHY YOU MIGHT FAIL
This guide shows examples of what you must do to drive safely and pass
the test. However, some actions and behaviours are classed as fail items.
If you do something that gets a fail, your test will continue so that you
can be given a full assessment of your driving ability but you will not
pass the test.
Here is a list of all the fail items along with some examples of how they may
happen on a driving test.
Remember that this is only a guide and if you have any more questions you
should consult the Road Users’ Handbook available from your local registry.
Alternatively, the Road Users’ Handbook as well as the Road Rules can be
downloaded from Roads and Maritime website rms.nsw.gov.au
1. DISOBEYING TRAFFIC SIGNS, SIGNALS OR ROAD MARKINGS
Be sure you have a thorough understanding of the meaning of regulatory
signs, traffic signals and road markings. They tell you what road rules apply
in any specific situation. Examples of this fail item include:
• Notstoppingataredtrafficlight.
This means that all of your vehicle must be behind the stop line.
• Notstoppingatayellowtrafficlightwhenitissafetodoso.
You must stop at a yellow light unless sudden braking
might cause a crash.
• Notstoppingcorrectlyatastopline.
Your final stopped position must be within one metre
of the stop line and with no part of your car over the line.
• Crossingacontinuouscentreline,lanelineor
edge line unnecessarily.
• Disobeyinglanemarkings(transitlane,turnarrowsetc).
•NotobeyingregulatorysignssuchasOneWay,NoEntry,NoU-Turn,
Keep Clear and Keep Left.
28
A guide to the Driving Test
5
2. FAILING TO GIVE WAY WHEN NECESSARY
Examples of this fail item include:
• Notgivingwaytoanyvehiclethathaspriorityoveryou
at an intersection.
• Notgivingwaytopedestriansatmarkedcrossings
and intersections.
• Notgivingwayif requiredwhenenteringatrafficstream,
merging or lane changing.
3. COLLIDING WITH A VEHICLE, PEDESTRIAN OR OBjECT
This includes mounting or straddling (one wheel either side of) a traffic
dome and mounting the kerb or roundabout.
You will not fail if you touch the kerb face with your wheels.
4. PERFORMING AN ILLEGAL ACT OR MANOEUVRE
An illegal act or manoeuvre is anything contrary to the Road Rules where a
regulatory traffic sign, signal or road marking is not present. Examples of
this fail item include:
• Unnecessarilydrivingonthewrongsideof theroad
on unmarked roads.
• Turningfromtheincorrectposition.Forexample,
starting a left turn from the right lane, or
• Whenturningleftorrightinanarrowedlane,
you do not exit to a permissible lane.
• Stoppingonapedestriancrossingorstopline
when giving way to pedestrians.
• Notdrivingintheleftlanewhenrequiredtodoso.
• MakinganunlawfulU-Turn.
• Notusingthecorrectlanetoturnataroundabout.
• Overtakingorpassingastationaryvehicleat
a pedestrian crossing.
• Enteringalevelcrossingwhenunsafetodoso.
• Notwearingaseatbelt.
• Answeringorusingamobilephone.
A guide to the Driving Test
29
5
5. ExCEEDING THE SPEED LIMIT
The speed limit is the maximum allowable speed for that section of road
under normal conditions. Exceeding the speed limit is dangerous and illegal.
You will fail if you exceed the speed limit at any time including:
• The40kilometreperhourlimitatschoolzonesduringthehours
of operation.
• The40kilometreperhourlimitwhenpassingabuswithflashinglights.
• Thelearnerdriverspeedlimit.
• Speedlimitsatroadworks.
6. ACTION REqUIRING TESTING OFFICER INTERVENTION
At this stage of your driving experience you should be able to drive without
any help. If the testing officer has to give you verbal or physical assistance,
including using the dual controls in an instructor’s vehicle, you will fail.
7. CAUSING A DANGEROUS SITUATION
This fail item covers any unsafe act or behaviour that puts you or others at
risk, such as overtaking in an unsafe manner, or giving way unnecessarily.
8. FAILING TO MAINTAIN PROPER CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE
This fail item applies to anything that could, or does, result in you losing
control of the vehicle such as:
• Allowingthevehicletorollbackmorethan500mmwhenmovingoff.
• Skiddingorspinningthedrivewheels.
• Clutchcoasting(allowingthevehicletorollalong
with your foot on the clutch) or coasting in neutral.
• Notmaintainingeffectivecontrolof thesteeringwheel.
9. FAILING TO ExERCISE DUE CARE TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT
You must be ready at all times to respond to hazards. If a situation occurs
requiring your response and you are not prepared, you will fail.
10. FAILING TO GIVE WAY TO AN EMERGENCY VEHICLE
You will fail if you do not move out of the way of an emergency vehicle.
11. DISOBEYING DIRECTIONS FROM A PERSON CONTROLLING TRAFFIC
This item includes failure to obey police, emergency services or armed
forces personnel, traffic controllers (eg flag persons at road works) and pilot
vehicles etc.
30
A guide to the Driving Test
5
12. FREqUENTLY NOT SIGNALLING INTENTION
You will fail if you repeatedly do not signal when legally required to do so.
You must signal:
• Togivesufficientwarningtootherroadusers
of your intentions when turning left or right.
• Foratleastfivesecondsbeforeleavingthekerb.
• Foratleastfivesecondsbeforeleavingaparkingspace.
• Whenchanginglanes,divergingorpullingovertothekerb.
• Whenexitingaroundabout.
13. REFUSING TO ATTEMPT ANY PART OF THE TEST
You are required to complete the whole test to get a pass. You can be failed
for refusing to do any part of the test.
14. REPEATED OR DELIBERATE FAILURE TO FOLLOW DIRECTIONS
You must follow all reasonable directions given to you by the testing officer
during the test.
15. UNREASONABLY OBSTRUCTING OTHER VEHICLES OR PEDESTRIANS
You will fail if you unreasonably obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians
during the test. This includes if you:
• Enteranintersectionwithoutenoughspaceontheotherside
due to traffic, blocking the intersection as a result.
• Drivesignificantlybelowthespeedlimitwhenprevailing
conditions do not require it.
16. RECEIVING ExTERNAL ADVICE OR INSTRUCTION DURING THE
TEST
You will fail if you receive any external advice from a third party at any time
during the test. This includes the time from when you sign the score sheet,
to getting into your vehicle.
FINAL POSITION AT A STOP LINE
If initially you stop more than one metre from the line you
must move up and stop within one metre of the stop line,
with no part of the vehicle over the line.
A guide to the Driving Test
31
5
17. NOT PARKING TO THE REqUIRED STANDARD
During the manoeuvres you will fail if:
• Thefinalpositionof yourcarismorethanonemetre
from the kerb or obstructing traffic.
• Yourwheelsareonorovermarkedparkinglines.
• You reverse more than seven metres from the vehicle in front during
the reverse park section of the test.
18. FAILING TO MAINTAIN A SAFE FOLLOWING DISTANCE
You will fail if you follow too closely to the vehicle in front.
19. FREqUENTLY NOT PERFORMING OBSERVATION CHECKS
You will incur this fail item if you repeatedly miss observation checks when
required. Specifically this fail item applies to checking your blind spots when
you:
• Leaveorreturntothekerb.
• Merge,divergeorchangelanes.
• Areabouttoreverse,suchasinareverseparallelparkand3pointturn.
• Turnatintersections,leaveorjointheroad.
• Crosslaneswithinaroundaboutonexiting.
You must turn your head and check it is safe to proceed when moving off
after being stopped at traffic lights and railway level crossings.
IMMEDIATE FAIL
In most circumstances, even if you commit a fail item, your test will
continue and you will be given a full assessment of your performance. In
some circumstances the testing officer may record an IMMEDIATE FAIL.
You will not be permitted to finish the test and the testing officer may drive
you back to the motor registry.
An immediate fail may occur if:
• Youdoanythingwhichisunsafeordangerous
and there is an obvious danger to the public.
• Yourefusetocooperatewiththetestingofficer
and so cannot be given a proper test.
32
A guide to the Driving Test
5
TEST TERMINATION
While IMMEDIATE FAIL criteria applies to issues concerning driving
ability, Termination criteria applies to situations not concerned with the
applicant’s driving performance.
Your test will be terminated if any of the unsatisfactory items below cannot
be rectified at the time of the test:
1. The testing vehicle
• isnotsuitableforsafeuse
• indicatorlights(includingsiderepeaters)orbrakelights
do not operate, are incomplete, dirty or discoloured.
• tyresarenotinasatisfactorycondition.
• isnotregistered.
• windscreencrackedorbrokensoastoobscuredriver’sand/or
testing officer’s vision, (not including minor cracks).
• hasacomplying(approvedandinworkingcondition)lap/sash
seat belt is not fitted for the testing officer.
• headrestraintsarenotfitted(vehiclemanufacturedafter1January1972).
• isnotsuitableforclassof licence.
• isnotsuitablefortypeof disability.
• hassharpedgescausedbybodydamage.
• hasanymirrorbrokenordamagedtotheextentthatitdistortsvision.
• hasanywheelrimexcessivelydamaged.
• hasanyvisiblewheelnutsmissing.
• hasanyexcessiveunderbodyfluidleaks.
• dualbrake(if fitted)ISoperational.
• dualaccelerator(if fitted)isNOToperational(dualaccelerator
must be secured out of reach or rendered inoperable).
• frontpassengerdoorhandle(eitherinsideoroutside),
or window handle, is missing or inoperative.
• doesnothavesolidfrontdoors(clothorfabric
doors are not acceptable).
• isaconvertibleorTargatopandtheroof is not capable of being covered in, at the request of the
testing officer or in the event of bad weather.
A guide to the Driving Test
33
5
2. The testing vehicle is unsuitable for the class of licence test.
Note: This includes a vehicle which contains equipment that can record
any aspect of the driving test including, visual images, sounds or the
vehicle’s position.
3. The testing vehicle is not suitable for the type of disability.
4. The testing vehicle breaks down during the test, or a large number of
assessments are missed while off the test course.
5. The applicant demonstrates unacceptable, inappropriate or
unlawful behaviours. Including:
a) A bribe or inducement is offered, or any other form of corrupt
conduct is suggested
b) Extreme emotional pleas, threats or sexual advances in an attempt
to influence a test result (a warning may be given if required)
c) Repeated and persistent requests to ignore an error.
(A warning may be given if required.)
d) Threatening, abusive, aggressive or violent behaviours.
6. The driver is, or is suspected to be, under the influence of
drugs or alcohol.
7. A crash occurs during the test, regardless of who is at fault.
8. The applicant is ill, to the extent that they may not
be able to drive safely.
9. Weather conditions are bad and make the driving task too demanding.
If the test is terminated the test fee may not be refunded.
10. Learner driver log book not complete in accordance with requirements.
You must secure any loose objects in the vehicle that may
interfere with vehicle control or cause injury during hard
braking.
34
A guide to the Driving Test
5
You can book licence tests at rms.nsw.gov.au Online Services
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE TEST?
When you return to the registry the testing officer will ask you to wait
inside while your result is calculated. Your testing officer will call you to the
counter to tell you your result.
If you do not pass you will be given a test report that shows your score
and where you need to improve. Your testing officer will discuss this briefly
with you. Testing officers will only provide general comments and are
not permitted to discuss specific situations or events. Remember, testing
officers are not driving instructors and it is not their job to give you a driving
lesson.
Roads and Maritime tries to make sure that your test will be conducted fairly
and courteously. If you are genuinely not satisfied with the way the test
was conducted after you get the results, please contact the manager at the
registry where you took the test. The manager will look into your complaint
and discuss the matter with you.
So if you passed, you will need to pay for your P1 licence. Congratulations
and safe driving!
If you did not pass, try again when you are ready.
Regardless of whether you pass or fail the driving test, it is
best to allow your supervising driver to take over the driving
when you leave the registry. This is because after taking the
test many learners find it hard to concentrate on driving
because they are either elated or disappointed by the result.
A guide to the Driving Test
35
5
TEST SCORE SHEET
Class C Car Driving Test
Test started
Applicant’s signature
Assessments
24 hour time
Test vehicle plate no. Name of driving instructor
State
Name of driving school
DI Licence number
Instructor’s
vehicle
Driving school number
Other
vehicle
Automatic
Manual
Termination
1
2
3
4
5
6
Test not conducted/terminated/
immediate fail because:
F IF
7
8
9
10
Manager verifying reason
Fail and immediate Fail items
signs, signals or road markings.
S
P
D
Z
H
R
C
S
P
D
1
H
R
C
S
P
D
2
H
R
C
S
P
D
3
H
R
C
S
P
D
4
H
R
C
S
P
D
5
H
R
C
S
P
D
6
H
R
C
S
P
D
7
H
R
C
S
P
D
8
H
R
C
S
P
D
9
H
R
C
S
P
D 10 H
R
C
S
P
D 11 H
R
C
S
P
D 12 H
R
C
S
P
D 13 H
R
C
1.
Disobeying
2.
Failing to give way when necessary.
S
P
D 14 H
R
C
3.
Colliding with a vehicle, pedestrian or object.
4.
Performing an illegal act or manoeuvre.
S
P
D 15 H
R
C
5.
Exceeding the speed limit.
S
P
D 16 H
R
C
S
P
D 17 H
R
C
intervention.
6.
Action requiring testing
7.
Causing a dangerous situation.
S
P
D 18 H
R
C
8.
Failing to maintain proper control of the vehicle.
S
P
D 19 H
R
C
9.
Failing to exercise due care to avoid an accident.
S
P
D 20 H
R
C
S
P
D 21 H
R
C
S
P
D 22 H
R
C
S
P
D 23 H
R
C
14. Repeated or deliberate failure to follow directions.
S
P
D 24 H
R
C
15. Unreasonably obstructing other vehicles or pedestrians.
S
P
D 25 H
R
C
10. Failing to give way to an emergency vehicle.
11. Disobeying directions from a person controlling
12. Frequently not signalling intention.
TOTAL
13. Refusing to attempt any part of the test.
YES
16. Receiving external advice or instruction during the test.
17. Not parking to the required standard.
NO
18. Failing to maintain a safe following distance.
19. Frequently not making required observation checks.
TOTAL
My result has been explained to me
Applicant‘s signature
OFFICE Test
USE
ONLY
24 hour time
25 25 25
25
Totals
Results
Date
day
NOTES
/
month
/
year
I certify that I have
tested the applicant in CSODT’s signature
accordance with Roads
and Maritime Services
procedures.
PASS
FAIL
Number of
FAIL items
PERCENTAGE
RANGE
RMS 1408 (02/12) Cat No. 45071250
36
A guide to the Driving Test
5
TEST FEEDBACK (REVERSE OF SCORE SHEET)
A “CIRCLE” in the assessment column indicates that further practice is necessary.
Speed management (S): (refer pages 9 to 11 of the Guide to the Driving Test). The driver demonstrates their ability to manage speed and maintain a crash avoidance space.
1. Maintains space to the front:
•withagapof atleast3secondswhenfollowinganothervehicle
and increases the gap in poor conditions
•whenstationarybehindanothervehicle
2. Reduces speed:
•whenvisionislimited(eg.blindcrestsandcurves)
•whenspacetothesideislimited
3. Maintains traffic flow:
•whentraffic,weatherandroadconditionsallow
Road Positioning (P): (refer pages 12 to 19 of the Guide to the Driving Test).
The driver demonstrates their ability to position the vehicle by selecting a safe and legal path of travel.
1. Buffering by:
•maintainingspacefromparkedandoncomingvehicles
•movingleftoncrestsandcurves
•avoidingdrivingintheblindspotsof othervehicles
2. Intersections:
•areapproachedandexitedinasafeandlegalmanner
3. Manoeuvres:
•parksatrequiredangle,closetothekerb(includingstartof three-pointturn)
•maintainssufficientdistance(betweenoneandtwometres)fromothervehicles
Decision making (D): (refer pages 6 to 8 and 20 to 21 of the Guide to the Driving Test).
The driver demonstrates the ability to select a safe and legal gap.
1.
2.
When joining the traffic flow, lane changing, merging, diverging and manoeuvring:
•chooses a safe and legal gap at intersections, leaving the kerb, changing lanes and merging
When crossing the traffic flow:
•clearstheintersection3secondsbeforeanothervehiclearrives.
The driver performs the necessary observation checks.
1. When joining the traffic flow, lane changing, merging, diverging, manoeuvring and proceeding through
traffic lights.
Hazards (H): (refer pages 22 and 25 of the Guide to the Driving Test). Hazards were present and capable of moving into the path of the applicant’s vehicle.
Responding to Hazards (R): (refer pages 22 to 25 of the Guide to the Driving Test). The driver demonstrates their ability to protect their crash avoidance space by responding to hazards with
one, or a combination of, the following actions.
1. Responds by managing speed, ‘sets up’ or ‘covers’ brakes, slowing down
2. Responds by managing position, buffers away from hazard
Vehicle Control (C): (refer pages 26 and 27 of the Guide to the Driving Test).
The driver demonstrates the ability to maintain smooth control of the vehicle by correct seat adjustment, use of
the accelerator, brakes, clutch, gears, steering, auxiliary controls and signals.
Codes in ‘NOTES’ column:
(K) Kerb side stop: page 17
(M) Manoeuvre: pages 17 to 19
(H) Observation error (Fail Item 19) : pages 6,
7, 19 & 32
(F) Fail Items: pages 28-32
(T) Termination: pages 33-34
Control Errors:
(A) Applicant posture, seat belt: page 27
(B) Brake, clutch, gears, accelerator: page 26
(C) Course, steering: page 26
(D) Dashboard controls, instruments, gauges, etc:
(E) page 26
(S) Signal error (Fail Item 12): page 31
A guide to the Driving Test
37
6
Tips for new provisional drivers
The crash rate of learner drivers is actually very low, partly due
to the guidance provided by the supervising driver. However, as a
newly licensed provisional driver driving without this supervision,
the risk of crashing is significantly greater.
By imposing your own constraints and gaining support when needed you
can reduce some of the risks involved.
NIGHT DRIVING
Crash data shows that the risk of provisional drivers crashing is greater at
night, particularly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Avoid driving at
these times if at all possible.
PASSENGER INFLUENCES
A relative or trusted friend can be very helpful in new and challenging
driving situations. However, some passengers can distract you and make it
harder to focus on driving. For the first 12 months of provisional driving
limit yourself to a maximum of one passenger.
FromJuly2007,allprovisionalP1driversunder25
have a passenger limit between 11pm and 5am.
DRIVING DISTRACTIONS
Distractions like adjusting a CD player or radio can divide your concentration
and result in a crash. If you have a passenger, get them to do the task. If you
are by yourself, wait until you are stopped before you divert your attention to
these activities. If you wish to use a mobile phone you must pull over to the
side of the road and turn the engine off.
As a provisional driver you are still limited to zero alcohol.
If you have had any drink or food containing alcohol
you cannot drive.
38
A guide to the Driving Test
6
LICENCE RESTRICTIONS FOR P1 LICENCES
Automatic
vehicles
You are restricted to driving an automatic
transmission vehicle if tested in one.
Blood Alcohol
Your BAC must be zero. This means you
Concentration (BAC) cannot have any alcohol in your system when you
drive a vehicle.
Demerit points
Your licence will be suspended if you incur 4 or
more points.
Display of P signs
P signs (red P on a white background) must be
clearly displayed on the front and back of the
exterior of the vehicle.
Licence class
You cannot learn to drive for a higher class licence.
Mobile phone
You must not use any function of a mobile phone,
including loudspeaker devices when driving.
Passengers
P1 drivers under 25 years of age are restricted
to carrying one passenger under 21 years of age
between 11pm and 5am.
Seatbelts
You must ensure all occupants are properly seated
and restrained by seatbelts or approved restraints.
Speedlimit
oumustnotdrivefasterthan90km/handmust
Y
observethespeedlimitwhereitisbelow90km/h.
Your licence will be suspended for at least three
months for any speeding offence.
Supervising a learner You must not supervise a learner driver.
Towing
You are allowed to tow light trailers up to 250
kilograms unloaded weight.
Vehicles You must not drive any vehicle with:
•Eightormorecylinders,(dieselpoweredengines
exempt)
•Aturbochargedorsuperchargedengine
(diesel powered engines exempt).
•Modificationsthatincreaseengineperformance.
•AnyothervehicleidentifiedbyRoadsandMaritime
– details available on Roads and Maritime website.
Please note exemptions may apply.
A guide to the Driving Test
39
6
LICENCE RESTRICTIONS FOR P2 LICENCES
Blood Alcohol
Your BAC must be zero. This means you
Concentration (BAC) cannot have any alcohol in your system when you
drive a vehicle.
Demerit points
Your licence will be suspended if you incur 7 or
more points.
Display of P signs
P signs (green P on a white background) must be
clearly displayed on the exterior of the front and
back of the vehicle.
Mobile phone
A mobile phone can be used for calls and audio
only if it is securely mounted or an automated
audio device is used. Touching a phone and text or
video functions are against the law.
Seatbelts
You must ensure all occupants are properly seated
and restrained by seatbelts or approved restraints.
Speedlimit
oumustnotdrivefasterthan100km/handmust
Y
observethespeedlimitwhereitisbelow100km/h.
P2 licence holders caught speeding will receive a
minimum of four demerit points.
Supervising a learner You must not supervise a learner driver.
Vehicles
40
A guide to the Driving Test
You must not drive any vehicle with:
•Eightormorecylinders,(dieselpoweredengines
exempt).
•Aturbochargedorsuperchargedengine
(diesel powered engines exempt).
•Modificationsthatincreaseengineperformance.
•AnyothervehicleidentifiedbyRoadsandMaritime
– details available on Roads and Maritime website.
Please note exemptions may apply.
For further enquiries:
rms.nsw.gov.au
13 22 13
Roads and Maritime Services
The information in this handbook is intended as a guide only and is subject to change at any time
without notice. It does not replace the law.
November 2013
Pub. 07.047
ISBN: 978-1-877070-15-0
Cat No. 45071261